Somewhat surprisingly, the manufacturer quotes that same figure for both the six-speed manual and the DSG automatic gearboxes; the latter differentiated from the previous version by the introduction of a more parsimonious seventh ratio. As before, the Performance version also benefits from the electronic locking front differential and larger brakes, as well as a smattering of extra equipment, including the Composition Media system, rain sensor and mobile phone interface.

Fourth-generation Mazda 3 strikes back at Focus and Golf with an upmarket...

What's it like?

The Golf GTI is the undisputed champion of usability among hot hatches, and this latest Performance variant does nothing to sully that reputation. Certainly, no rival is quite as accommodating inside, where the new 9.2in Discover Pro infotainment system and 12.3in digital instrument cluster only gild what was already a near-perfect amalgamation of ergonomic accuracy and trim finesse. The distinction, though, extends far beyond its perceived quality, incorporating everything from control weights to refinement to the quality of the wonderfully absorbent ride.

Much like that car though, the power is plumbed into the chassis like a sinew into bone. The four-cylinder unit's free-revving persistence troubles the front end in just about the correct amount, challenging its traction but rarely overstepping the axle’s ability to transmit all available energy to the road. Consequently, upping your effort feels like no practically no effort at all: the car just pushes gently back against you, the progressive steering and adaptive dampers generating just the right compromise of resistance and directness and supple poise.

The only limitation then, somewhat unsurprisingly, is the continuing absence of genuine exhilaration. The GTI Performance is so sleekly competent and forgiving that it can be difficult to find a way under the dynamic gloss – even as you’re going about as fast as you dare on a public road. In this regard, the ‘Performance’ edition’s cleverer diff only contributes to the adhesiveness and integrity of the package; its intrusion is far too benevolent to make the Golf feel much more adjustable than standard – even if you could switch out the electronic stability program (ESP), which you can’t.

Should I buy one?

So comfortable and consistent and thoroughly able is the seventh generation of GTI that it’s hard to see how buying one could ever incite regret. On practically any given day, for a journey of any length, the Golf would gratify its owner in a way no other contemporary hot hatch seriously rivals. In GTI Performance guise, this same broad-batted, indulgent appeal is merely taken up a notch in ground-covering ability – and that’s enough to earn it a clear-cut recommendation.

I cant believe this and R have the painted metal of the door visible around the window.

I think that's something more cars need, a bit of bodycolour inside to brighten the interior a little. This GTI isn't the worst, with red in the check upholstery cloth and some other red stitching too, but the majority of cars are way too grey and unadventurous inside. Obviously if the bodycolour is grey or silver or black they'd need to use something more vivid to highlight the interior.